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Family Discussing Estate Tax Documents with Financial Advisor

What is estate tax?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

Estate tax is a federal tax on the transfer of a person’s assets at death, and in 2025 it generally applies only to estates above the federal exemption (about $13.6 million per person). Some states also impose their own estate or inheritance taxes with lower thresholds. This article explains how estate tax works, what counts […]

Family Discussing Inheritance Documents Together

Estate Planning Probate & Estate Administration

What is an inheritance?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

An inheritance is the money, property, or other assets a person receives after someone dies, typically through a will, trust, or state intestacy laws. The amount and timing depend on the decedent’s estate plan, outstanding debts, and probate or trust administration requirements. This article explains what counts as an inheritance, how it’s transferred, who is […]

Elderly Couple Reviewing Estate Planning Documents

Estate Planning Probate Administration

What is a bequest?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A bequest is a gift of money, property, or other assets made through a will to a named beneficiary, organization, or charity. It takes effect only after the will-maker dies and the estate is administered, and it can be specific (a particular item) or general (a sum of money). This article explains how bequests work, […]

Family Tree Diagram Showing Inheritance Connections

Estate Planning Probate and Estate Administration

What is an heir?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

An heir is a person legally entitled to inherit property from someone who dies, either under a valid will or under state intestacy laws when there is no will. Heir priority typically follows family relationships such as spouses, children, parents, and other relatives. This article explains who qualifies as an heir, the main types of […]

Person Signing Beneficiary Designation Form

Estate Planning Probate

What is a beneficiary?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A beneficiary is a person or entity you legally name to receive assets, money, or other benefits, often upon your death. Beneficiaries can be designated in wills, trusts, life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and payable-on-death accounts. This article explains beneficiary types, how designations work, and common mistakes to avoid. A beneficiary is a person or […]

Estate Administrator Reviewing Legal Documents

Estate Administration Probate Administration

What is an estate administrator?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

An estate administrator is a court-appointed personal representative who manages and settles an intestate estate (no valid will). They collect assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute property to heirs under state law with court oversight. This article explains appointment priority, key duties, and how administrators differ from executors. Understanding the Role of an Estate […]

Executor Reviewing Estate Documents at Desk

Estate Planning Probate and Estate Administration

What is an executor?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

An executor is the person legally appointed to settle a deceased person’s estate through probate. They gather assets, pay valid debts and taxes, and distribute remaining property under the will or state law. This article explains what an executor does, how they’re chosen, and key responsibilities and limits. When someone passes away, their assets, debts, […]

Living Will Document with Medical Equipment

Elder Law Estate Planning

What is a living will?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A living will is a legal document that states your medical treatment wishes if you become unable to communicate them. It guides doctors and loved ones on care you want or refuse, often alongside other advance directives. This article explains living wills, how they differ from advance healthcare directives, and what they cover. A living […]

Medical Forms and Stethoscope on Wooden Desk

Elder Law Estate Planning

What is an advance directive?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

An advance directive is a legal document that records your health care wishes and can name a medical decision-maker. It guides doctors and family if you’re incapacitated by illness or injury. This article explains why you need one, what it covers, and how to create or update it. An advance directive is a legal document […]

Healthcare Proxy Document with Stethoscope

Elder Law Estate Planning

What is a healthcare proxy?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A healthcare proxy is a legal document that names 1 person (and often an alternate) to make medical decisions for you if you can’t communicate. It lets your chosen agent speak with doctors and consent to or refuse treatment based on your wishes. This article explains how healthcare proxies work, who to choose, and how […]

Legal Document Signing with Attorney and Clients

Elder Law Estate Planning

What is a durable power of attorney?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A durable power of attorney is a written legal document that authorizes 1 trusted agent to handle your financial matters if you become incapacitated. It stays effective even after incapacity, allowing tasks like paying bills, managing accounts, and signing documents without a court-appointed guardian. This article explains how a DPOA works, who to choose, and […]

Legal Documents with Pen and Gavel on Wooden Desk

Elder Law Estate Planning

What is a power of attorney?

March 26, 2026 • By Jack Gilbert

A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants another person authority to act on your behalf. It typically names 2 parties—the principal and the agent—and can be limited or broad, temporary or durable. This article explains how POAs work, common types, and key choices to make before signing. A power of attorney […]

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